<p>So I know it's probably way too early for me to be looking into grad schools as I'm only finishing up my freshman year of undergrad, but I'd like to at least have an idea of how to begin looking. I'm thinking I'll likely want a program with English/Journalism/Communications, either in the Midwest or on the West Coast. Any ideas on how to start a casual search, just to get a feel for what's out there? Also, though I'm not aiming for Ivy Caliber, I do want an "above average" program, so tp speak. What kind of GPA should I be aiming for?</p>
<p>I've never understood these GPA questions... Just do as well as you possibly can in your courses. Will you perform any differently in the classroom if I say you need a 3.5 of if I say a 3.8? Obviously, to increase your chance of admission, you'll want as high of a GPA as you can get. There is no magic number, because the admissions process is far more deep than that.</p>
<p>Aim for a 4.0. If not that, then a 3.9 is great!</p>
<p>As is a 3.8!</p>
<p>...or 3.7!</p>
<p>...or 3.6!</p>
<p>You might get in with a 2.9. Ironically enough, with a 2.9 and not a 4.0. Maybe a 3.8 student will beat you if you have a 4.0. Ha. Or a 3.3 student beats you when you have a 3.9. </p>
<p>Thanks, so I guess GPA isn't quite as important for grad school as it is for undergrad, or at least, there are other important factors. What about my other question, where to start looking?</p>
<p>google for graduate programs in your area of interest. start from there to find a list of schools that offer what you are looking for. start browsing the sites to see what they are looking for in an applicant, and more importantly, if it is what YOU are looking for.</p>